Sunshine and warm weather are some of the best reasons to live in Texas, and you have a great backyard perfect for enjoying them. But all that intense heat doesn’t exactly go easy on your outdoor furniture, particularly the fabric. The wrong material can fade, crack, and make you frustrated. Don’t sweat it because selecting the right outdoor fabrics that can take the Texas heat is well within reach. Here’s what you need to know.
Solution-dyed acrylic fabric is one of the strongest options for enduring the Texas heat. Distributed tracing sounds strange, but it’s actually pretty neat. The solution-dyed part refers to the fact that the color is blended into the fibers before they’re even spun into thread. It’s like a carrot. The color goes all the way through. Making the fabric extremely resistant to fading from the damaging UV rays of the sun. It stands up to all of those long, hot Texas days and doesn’t fade in the harsh sunlight. Acrylic is also decent about resisting water and mildew, which can be a bonus if you get those surprise summer storms.
Another great choice is olefin fabric, also known as polypropylene. This is a manmade fiber that is super tough and durable. And similar to solution-dyed acrylic, olefin is colorfast, which translates to less fading. It’s also very good at repelling stains, moisture, and mildew. Because olefin fabrics are relatively durable, they’re popular choices for high-traffic outdoor spaces. They also tend to be more affordable than many other high-performance options, which is a win.
You may also see materials referred to as outdoor polyester. Where standard polyester might fade in the Texas sun, outdoor polyester is treated with UV inhibitors to make it more resistant. The inhibitors function as sunscreen for the fabric, helping to shield the color and prevent breakdown. Outdoor polyester is also typically water-resistant and easy to clean. But it may not be quite as fade-resistant in the long run as solution-dyed acrylic or olefin, particularly in direct, strong Texas sunlight.
As you shop for fabrics for the outdoors, be sure to look at the label or description. Scan for keywords, such as solution-dyed, UV-resistant, fade-resistant, outdoor, and performance fabric. Terms like these tell you that the fabric is meant to provide protection from the elements. If you’re unsure whether a fabric will work in the Texas heat, don’t be shy about asking questions.
Beyond fabric, there’s also the weave to consider. In general, tightly woven fabrics are more durable and water-resistant than loosely woven fabrics. A denser weave can also assist the fabric in holding its color.
And of course, keep in mind that the hardiest of outdoor fabrics can only be bolstered by a bit of care. Where possible, try to keep your furniture in areas of shade, particularly for the hottest times of the day. Frequently washing your cushions and covers can also help you avoid dirt and mildew buildup that can degrade fabric.
Selecting suitable outdoor fabrics for your patio does not have to be a headache. With a focus on materials like solution-dyed acrylic, olefin, and treated outdoor polyester, along with paying attention to labels and weaves, you can find fabrics that will not only look great but will also withstand that intense Texas heat for years to come.
